Introduction to Chinese Civilization

This course introduces to students the general Chinese civilization from the neolithic era down to the present. It emphasizes the late imperial period to the contemporary world. The course covers as wide topics as history, philosophy, politics, women?s studies, local society, economy, environment, etc. The goal of the course is to provide students with general knowledge of China?s past and present, but at the same time encourage them to deeply investigate one or two fields that mostly attract them. By exploring such fields, the course anticipates students to understand China?s glory and predicament, which will greatly improve the mutual understandings between Chinese people and foreigners. Students are required to read assigned readings every week and finish writing two papers centered on the topics they choose during the semester. They are expected to participate actively in the course by raising questions, leading discussions, or giving presentations.